1356 Reviews
Fall in Tennessee brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and a few unwelcome guests. If you’ve spotted stink bugs, Asian lady beetles, or boxelder bugs in and around your home, you’re not alone. These seasonal pests are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. This fall pest prevention information from All-American Pest Control explains why these insects invade, how to spot them, and—most importantly—how to keep them out.
Why Fall Pests Invade Tennessee Homes
Every autumn, the same bugs seem to show up. That’s no coincidence. Pests like stink bugs, Asian lady beetles, and boxelder bugs thrive in warm summer weather, but when temperatures drop, they look for a cozy place to spend the winter.
These insects enter a dormant state called diapause, similar to hibernation. To prepare, they gather on sunny, south-facing walls and then slip inside through cracks, gaps, or torn screens. Once indoors, they settle into wall voids and attics until spring, when they reappear in your living spaces before heading back outside.
Meet the Top Fall Invaders
Stink Bugs
Named for their defense mechanism, stink bugs release an unpleasant odor when threatened or crushed. They’re usually grayish-brown with shield-shaped bodies, six legs, and thin antennae, measuring about ½–¾ inch long.
Common Signs: Clusters on sunny walls, entry through small gaps, and a strong odor when disturbed.
Asian Lady Beetles
Often mistaken for ladybugs, Asian lady beetles have red-orange bodies that may or may not have spots, plus an M-shaped mark behind the head. They cluster in large groups, release a foul smell, and can bite. Their yellowish secretion may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation.
Boxelder Bugs
Black with reddish-orange markings, box elder bugs are long, flat, and about ½ inch in length. Outdoors, they gather around box elder and silver maple trees. While harmless, their secretions can stain fabrics and walls.
Are Fall Pests Dangerous?
These pests won’t damage your home’s structure or reproduce indoors. However, they can:
-
Stain fabrics, furniture, and walls
-
Create unpleasant odors
-
Trigger allergies or skin irritation (especially from Asian lady beetles)
How to Prevent Fall Pests
The key to stopping stink bugs, lady beetles, and boxelder bugs is preventing them from getting inside. Here are a few tips to help you:
-
Seal cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and utility lines
-
Replace worn-out weather stripping and door sweeps
-
Repair attic vents, soffits, and siding gaps
-
Fix or replace damaged window and door screens
-
Use yellow bug lights outdoors
-
Remove leaf piles, firewood, and debris near your foundation
DIY Removal Tips
If you spot a few pests already indoors, here are a few things you can do to remove them:
-
Vacuum them (promptly empty the bag or cannister outside)
-
Spray clusters with dish soap solution
-
Use natural repellents like essential oils or vinegar
-
Avoid crushing them—this releases odor and stains
Why Professional Pest Control Works Best
DIY can help temporarily, but it won’t remove pests hiding in walls or attics. Professional home pest control services offer:
-
Access to hidden spaces with specialized tools
-
Long-lasting treatments like attic services, misting, and exterior barrier sprays
-
Seasonal protection with recurring treatments to stop reinfestations
Seasonal Pest Control with All-American
Our fall-focused service includes:
-
Detailed inspection and guidance on entry-point sealing
-
Exterior treatments and crack/crevice applications
-
Attic and wall void treatments, if needed
-
Preventative quarterly service plans for year-round protection; we offer eco-friendly pest control as well
Act in Fall—Stay Pest-Free in Spring
Late summer and early fall are the best times to block fall invaders. Preventing an infestation now means fewer pests in spring, and it’s more cost-effective than treating an established problem later. Don’t wait for pests to take over your home. Call All-American Pest Control today for your free home evaluation and enjoy a pest-free season.
Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions in Nashville, TN & Nearby Areas
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: Brentwood, Centerville, Fairview, Thompson’s Station, Arrington, Leiper’s Fork, Windstone, Westhaven, McKay’s Mill, Ladd Park, Rizer Point, Silver Stream, Annandale, Canterbury, Governors Club, Avalon, LaurelBrooke, Belle Vista, Lockwood Glen, Lookaway Farms, Maplewood, McLemore Farms, Meadowview Estates, College Grove, Franklin, Nolensville, Primm Springs, as well as the entire Williamson County and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or reach out online today!